J-1 Visa FAQ’s

1. What is the J-1 visa?

The Exchange Visitor (J) non-immigrant visa category is for individuals approved to participate in work and-study-based exchange visitor programs. The purpose of the program is to foster a global understanding through educational and cultural exchanges.

2. Am I eligible for the J-1?

As the J-1 is a student exchange visa, you must be a post-secondary student or recent graduate – i.e. you must have completed at least one year of a bachelor’s degree program or other course which will lead to an issuance of a degree. If you are a recent graduate, you must have completed your degree within the past 12 months.

3. How long does it last?

The length of the J-1 visa varies country-to-country but all will allow you to work and travel in the U.S. for up to 12 months.

4. How much does it cost?

There is a cost for the J-1 visa and a booking fee for the interview at the U.S. Consulate. You are also required to cover the cost of the travel/medical insurance for the length of your stay.

5. How do I find a J-1 sponsor company?

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs has an approved list of sponsors, you can find one for you via this link. There are also agencies* in each country which assist in the facilitation of applying for an obtaining a J-1 visa – contact us for recommended agencies.

*additional cost involved

6. Do I need to have a job organized before arriving?

You are not required to have pre-organized employment prior to arriving in the U.S.

7. What sort of job can I work in?

You are required to perform the job activity that you have listed on your Form DS-2019 and as stated in the regulations of your category of exchange.

8. Does my J-1 program sponsor need to approve my job placement?

Your J-1 program sponsor must approve your job placement, approval is required before you are able to begin working at your new job.

9. Am I required to have health insurance on the J-1?

Yes – participants are required to carry medical insurance at the minimum benefit levels. Your program sponsor will be able to recommend medical/travel insurance that will be appropriate for your stay in the U.S.

10. What position could I work in at Bluestone Lane?

We have many exciting roles available at Bluestone Lane – we are currently recruiting café & coffee shop roles (Baristas, Servers, Team Captains, Managers) for our stores in New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., San Francisco & Los Angeles!

11. Can I work two different jobs on the J-1?

Yes, you can.

12. What happens after the 12 months finish?

As the J-1 is a non-immigrant visa, you are required to return to your home country after your J-1 has expired.

13. What if I’m not eligible for the J-1 visa or want to stay in the US after my J-1 has expired?

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Seriously. Stop it. Go.

In select California locations, a 2% charge is added to all checks at the time of sale to help cover the cost of employer-provided health care benefits for all employees who are eligible for health care benefits. Thank you for supporting a healthier & happier staff. If you would like this charge removed, please let us know and the charge will be removed.